Travel guide
Best Internet for Tourists in Spain (UK travelers)
Spain after Brexit: eSIM, local SIM, UK roaming or pocket Wi-Fi? Pick the best way to get online in Spain with predictable costs and fast setup.
For most UK holidays in Spain (weekends to 2-week trips), a prepaid travel eSIM is the simplest option. After Brexit, many UK plans charge for roaming in Europe, so prepaid data is a good way to keep spend predictable.
Coverage snapshot
- Cities/coast: strong 4G/LTE on Movistar, Orange, Vodafone; 5G in many metros.
- Rural/interior: occasional 3G; cache maps for remote drives.
- Islands: 4G in main towns; offline maps recommended for remote routes.
Options compared
| Option | Setup time | Typical cost | Data | Hotspot | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| eSIM (prepaid) | 2–3 min | Fixed price for chosen data volume | Fixed | Yes | Install before travel; connect on arrival |
| Local prepaid SIM | 10–20 min + ID | Prepaid bundles (value varies) | Fixed | Yes | Good for long stays |
| UK roaming | Instant | Often ~2–5 GBP/day (varies by carrier/plan) | Daily cap | Yes | Costs stack up on longer trips |
| Pocket Wi‑Fi | Pickup/return + deposit | Daily rental + deposit | FUP applies | Yes | Extra device to carry/charge |
When eSIM is ideal
- Weekend / 1–2 week holidays
- Late arrivals or cruise itineraries
- Need dual-SIM convenience (primary number stays active)
- Want prepaid, predictable spend
How to set it up
- Buy online; stay on Wi‑Fi.
- Scan QR from your email.
- Set eSIM as data line; keep primary for calls/SMS.
- Enable data roaming for eSIM; test with maps.
Local SIM mini-guide
- Bring passport/ID for registration.
- Ask staff to test data/APN before leaving.
- Popular packs: 10–30 GB / 4 weeks.
Pocket Wi‑Fi reality check
- Device to charge/carry; deposits apply.
- FUP often throttles after a few GB/day.
FAQ (snippet)
- Calls included? Data-only; use apps.
- Hotspot? Yes, if device supports.
- Works before arrival? Install now; activate after landing.
- Top-ups? Use add-on flow when low on data.